-
Art of Redirection
-
One time redirection helped avoid a behavioral issue when two young children were playing with building blocks and both wanted the same piece. Instead of allowing the situation to escalate, I calmly stepped in, acknowledged both children’s feelings, and redirected one child to a similar block while explaining that the other child was still using the original piece. This prevented grabbing or yelling and allowed both children to remain engaged in play.After redirecting, I took a moment to teach simple communication skills by modeling what they could say, such as, “Can I have a turn when you’re done?” and “I’m using this right now, but you can have it next.” I also introduced the idea of taking turns using a visual timer so children could see when their turn would happen. This helped them understand that waiting does not mean losing.Because sharing is still developing at this age, I use creative methods such as role-playing with dolls or puppets, reading short stories about taking turns, and using songs about sharing and waiting. I also praise children when I observe them using words instead of grabbing or when they wait patiently. These strategies help children feel successful, reduce frustration, and build early communication and social skills.
-
One time I used redirection when two children were arguing over a toy. Instead of telling them to stop, I helped them find another activity they could do together. I suggested building a garage for the toy with blocks. This helped them calm down and work together instead of fighting.To teach communication, I model simple phrases like “Can I have a turn?” and “I’m still using this.” I also use timers to help with turn-taking since sharing is still developing at this age. I remind children to use their words and talk about their feelings so they can learn how to solve problems in a positive way.
-
One time redirection really helped was during free play when two toddlers both wanted the same set of blocks. Instead of letting the situation escalate, I gently acknowledged their feelings and redirected one child by offering a different but equally exciting option: “These blocks are being used right now, but look—there’s a whole basket of magnetic tiles we can build with together.” The child quickly shifted their attention, and the tension disappeared. Redirection kept the moment calm and allowed both children to stay engaged without turning it into a power struggle.When it comes to teaching communication—especially since sharing is still a developing skill—I like to use simple, playful methods that help children express themselves. Modeling language is key. I’ll say things like, “Can I have a turn when you’re done?” or “I’m using this right now, but you can have it next.” Over time, children start repeating those phrases on their own.I also use visual cues, like turn‑taking timers or “waiting hands,” to help them understand the rhythm of sharing. Role‑playing with puppets is another fun way to practice communication because children love acting out scenarios and trying out new words in a safe, silly way.Overall, redirection and communication go hand in hand. When we guide children gently and give them the language they need, we help them build the social skills that make the classroom calmer, kinder, and more connected.
-
One student in my class has difficult drops offs. He will stay at the door or try to open it if he is not ready to say goodbye to his parents. My support teacher and I both frequently redirect him to help us with breakfast. This helps pulls his focus away from a hard time. He loves to be a “super helper”. I’ve used puppets or other props to help encourage communication. This is especially helpful for younger students who may be upset.
-
Megan, your strategy of using redirection during drop-offs is fantastic! Engaging the child as a “super helper” not only distracts him but also builds his confidence. Great use of props to enhance communication!
-
-
tengo una hija pequeña de un año y una de 6 años mi hija la mas pequeña quiere todo lo que la mas grande trae , mi hija mas grande traia un osito y la mas chiquta lo queria asi que se puso a llorar porque la mas grande no se lo queria dar entoces me puse a platicar con la mas grande y le dije hija yo se que el osito es tuyo pero porfabor prestaselo un ratito mira como esta yorando tu hermana me puse a platicar con ella y me entendio y se lo presto y se puso a jugar con su hermanita
-
Ana, your approach to redirecting the situation by engaging your older daughter in conversation was wonderful! It highlights the importance of empathy and sharing as they learn to communicate. Great job!
-
-
tengo dos hijas la ma pequeña tiene 1 año y la mas grande tiene 6 años ,un dia la mas grande traia un osito y la mas chiquita lo queria y la mas grande no se lo queria prestar me puse a platicar con eya hija porfabor prestaselo mira como esta yorando tu hermana eya me dijo no es mio le dije si es tuyo miamor pero prestaselo en un momento te lo debolbera porfabor y asi segi platicando hasta que se lo presto y la niña mas pequeña se contento y se puso la mas grande a jugar con la mas chica y asi trato de integrarlas y platicar con la mas grande porque eya ya entiende un poco mas que la chiquita y alfinal le regrese su ositio ala mas grande para que entienda que lo que le digo es sierto
-
Ana, your approach to using redirection with your daughters is commendable! By engaging your older child in conversation and emphasizing sharing, you fostered empathy and understanding. Great job integrating communication skills!
-
-
Usually if my students have trouble with sharing a toy , I usually do is tell them that we are setting a timers and after its rings we share it to the other person. Or sometimes if a child have a hard time playing with other friends, I separate them and take them to take table and give he/she different toy or writing pad or colouring book to do
-
Great strategies, Ranga! Using timers for sharing promotes patience and turn-taking, while providing alternative activities helps minimize conflict. Consider incorporating more collaborative games to encourage sharing in a fun way!
-
-
During free play, two preschoolers wanted the same toy and started getting upset. I calmly said, “You both want the toy,” and redirected one child to help me build a garage with blocks. This helped them calm down and avoided a bigger problem.To teach communication, I use simple words like “my turn” and “help please,” along with gestures, turn-taking games, and role-play. Since sharing is still developing, I focus on teaching children to use words and take turns instead of forcing them to share right away.
-
Anushika, your approach to redirection is commendable! By guiding one child to a new activity, you not only diffused tension but also encouraged cooperation. Your emphasis on simple communication and role-play is a fantastic strategy for fostering sharing skills. Keep it up!
-
-
I noticed that a certain student had a card game they always wanted me to play because i knew how to already play. but this would isolate them or they would get upset when i to busy. So i told them they should start a group where they can teach others how to play the game. This student got half of the class to learn the game and now its a large card game that all of the student play together and all love playing.
-
Valentino, your use of redirection is impressive! Encouraging the student to teach their peers not only fosters communication skills but also promotes inclusion and teamwork. Great job inspiring collaboration!
-
-
tengo dos hijas una tiene 1 año y la otra tiene 6 añoa una bes la mas grande traia un peluche y la mas chiquita lo queria y la grande no se lo queria prestar entonses me puse a platicar con la mas grande hija porfabor prestaselo mira que tu hermana esta yorando prestacelo un ratito y despues te lo doy y si si se lo presto y hasta se puso a jugar con su hermana
-
Ana, your approach to redirection was effective and compassionate! Encouraging your older daughter to empathize and share demonstrates valuable communication skills. Great job fostering cooperation between your children!
-
-
When working with one of the older toddlers she was very upset about her mother leaving, in order to distract her i took her to the family wall and had her name her family members by the time she finished she had calmed down a little bit. I told her that we could draw them something so she could show her mother when she returned. while she was crying i had asked her if she felt sad that she had to say bye to her mom and that it was okay. i also taught her about sharing by trading if another child wanted her toy, she could ask for a different toy that the other child had.
-
Great job, Jade! Your approach to redirection through family connection and art was thoughtful and effective. Encouraging emotional expression and sharing helps nurture their communication skills beautifully!
-
-
A time when redirection helped avoid behavioral issues was when two boys I was babysitting both wanted to play with the same toy. Instead of letting the situation turn into an argument, I suggested to one of them to do a different activity by offering another interesting toy and inviting them to play with me. This helped them not fight and kept both children calm and engaged.
-
Great job, Ziara! Your use of redirection not only prevented conflict but also encouraged cooperation and engagement. Offering alternative activities is a creative way to foster positive interactions among children.
-
-
A child in the toddler room thinks all the toys are his and his twin sisters. Anytime a peer is playing with a toy he will either punch them or push them down. Before I see that he is about to do this to a peer I will get to his level and show him some other toys. Doing this helps him from hitting or punching.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
Renee, great job recognizing the importance of getting to the child’s level and redirecting their attention! This proactive approach not only prevents negative behavior but also helps foster sharing skills in a positive way.
-
-
Sometimes when I add new toys to the playroom children want to have a turn and do not want to wait. I recently add a coffee machine; we opened the new toy in circle time ‘ I modeled how to play with the toy and then went around the circle and let each child make a cup of coffee. later i sat near the housekeeping center and modeled other cooking activities so that everyone that want to play had something to do. this method work great for mixed ages. toddles are just really looking to be included and 3s and 4s often like to make food and drink for others.
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
Judy, your approach to modeling play and providing alternatives is excellent! It encourages inclusion and creativity while addressing the children’s need to share. Great job fostering communication skills!
-
-
We have a rule in our classroom that each child puts their work on a mat when working on the floor to work independently. Sometimes, 2 or more children will congregate around another child’s mat and try to participate in that child’s activity. I use a gentle voice and remind the “extra” children that they, too, may have an opportunity to do that work when the tray has been returned to the shelf, and then one by one suggest a work that they may be interested in in the meantime. When the children are behaving or speaking inappropriately to each other, I get down on their level and offer them a new way to speak to or treat the other person{s} that would be more successful. By the children repeatedly hearing this modeled response, they learn from me and from each other how to be more successful in their interpersonal interactions.
